Taysdad

I forgot.......I also changed (8) spark plugs and the thermostat at the same time. The cost would have been ~$100 less without doing these items.

ktdsc430

I have a 2002 Sc430 with only 21,000 miles. When should I consider changing the timing belt?

DarthSid

I also have an 02 with 24k miles. I called the service consultant at a Lexus dealer and I was informed service for the timing belt is recommended as stated earlier at 90k miles or time. Since our vehicles are 12 years old, it's highly recommended to have the timing belt and associated parts replaced. The consultant also recommends to have the following items inspected; water pump, thermostat, serpentine belt, and bearings on pulleys.

momssc

My 02 has 38k and no TB change as of yet. I asked a local mechanic that mainly works on Acura's, he said I don't mind taking your money but put 50k miles on it first then come see me...

jzwu

I have 93k miles on my 2002. No timing belt change yet. I will run the car to 150k before considering it.

Since I live in CA, the temp doesn't go to extreme lows (in fact, it barely sees freezing temps here) so the belt will last much longer.

kjcole

I'd be more worried about the water pump impeller seizing, or idler bearings seizing - that's the source of the load that snaps the belt rather than the belt simply letting go. You may be fine, however. And if the water pump starts leaking (not unusual by 150K miles) you'll get to do the timing belt anyway.

jzwu

Exactly. I am checking the coolant level and water pump leaks regularly.

The belt will last easily for 150k miles if the coolant system holds. I changed the red long life coolant already.

Harold57

I had my '02 timing belt (& all the other stuff) changed at about 60kmi. The older manuals called for the change to occur at 60kmi or 7 years. (I think that I might have done it at 8 years.) They changed it later to 90kmi. I don't remember what I paid but that was at least 4 years ago.

Belt deterioration is not totally dependent on usage, it is also dependent on age and environment. The environment can be quite caustic in there, though occasionally we hear of someone changing their belts after 100kmi and 10 years and their belts looking to be in good shape. On the other hand, it is not uncommon for someone to change it out early and find the belts in bad shape.

I'd recommend that you do what makes it easy for you to sleep at night and not worry. If you live in a weather extreme environment and run the car hard, I'd replace the belt on the recommended period regardless.

igorxx

I replaced the timing belt and water pump on my 2002 at 65K. Cost total $800 at Toyota dealer. The belt showed no wear that I could see. They said they could see some but couldn't point it out to me. On the water pump all I could see was some antifreeze. I regret not doing the water pump myself. I have changed them in Fords and Mercedes and they very little trouble. Peace of mind.

Curr

96k on an 03.

Yes. Just had it done at the local Toyota dealership for $700 (parts & labor).

See Jeff K at Nashua Toyota, he'll treat you right.